The Assistant Transport Minister, Naisa Tuinaceva, has put forth an actionable plan to combat traffic congestion, particularly in the heavily trafficked Suva-Nausori corridor. Rather than relying solely on engineering solutions, Tuinaceva advocates for a change in road user behavior as a pivotal part of the solution.
Tuinaceva emphasizes that if drivers modify their habits, the frequent traffic jams that plague Fiji’s busiest roads could be mitigated. He encourages the public to embrace public transport, consider carpooling, and adjust their travel times to avoid peak hours. “We are encouraging people to use public transport, we are encouraging people to do carpooling, and we are encouraging people if they can change their travel time. Those that can leave early to go to work or for school, just to avoid the congestion,” he stated.
To support these objectives, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) is actively working on enhancing public transport services. Chair Inosi Kuridrani noted the importance of a consistent and regular bus service for those living in semi-urban areas, which would enable more residents to opt for public transportation instead of private vehicles.
The government’s long-term strategies to alleviate road congestion include optimizing traffic light systems for better efficiency and managing critical junctions more effectively. There is a broader context to this initiative, as it coordinates with ongoing infrastructural upgrades that also address long-standing traffic issues in the region. Previous efforts highlighted significant road expansions slated for vital routes, with plans to improve major thoroughfares to alleviate congestion.
This unified approach illustrates a commitment not just to immediate congestion relief but also to fostering a sustainable and efficient transport network for all Fijians. Residents remain hopeful that these comprehensive measures will lead to smoother commutes in the future, marking a significant stride towards better connectivity and socio-economic development in Fiji.
A positive perspective on this situation is that community involvement and cooperation in altering daily travel habits can cultivate a more sustainable urban environment, reducing reliance on personal vehicles while enhancing public transport usage and traffic flow.
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